Since I saw a preview of

But if you did get to see Made of Honor this weekend (this is not a spoiler, so feel free to keep reading) you know that the bride is engaged to a Scottish gentleman, and they decide to get married in Scotland.

The couple chooses a variety of Scottish traditions to include in the wedding festivities: a pre-wedding sporting event, the menu, attire and music. Whether you’re getting married in a foreign country or not, you may want to include cultural traditions in your wedding.  These traditions can come from your family, the groom’s family, or just pick a tradition you like and make it your “something borrowed.”

I love the idea of having music represent a family’s heritage/culture.  From klezmer bands during the cocktail hour to bagpipes at the ceremony, there are a myriad of options available.

At a Scotland Tourism event I attended last month I had the privilege of trying two Scottish cocktails – which I’ll write about tomorrow – and also hearing an amazing Scottish band: Red Hot Chilli Pipers.  That’s right bagpipers. 

While traditional bagpipers in kilts are not an unfamiliar site at Scottish weddings in the US, this new take on a familiar cultural tradition will definitely add a unique element to your wedding. 

And no, I’m not suggesting that you only have bagpipers for your reception music.  Research local bands in your area and hire a cultural band for your cocktail hour or for part of your reception.  Unfortunately, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers are based in Scotland, but maybe you could email them and ask them if they can recommend a band with a similar sound in the States.  Please let us know if you know of a great cultural band, I'm sure other brides would be interested in the information.